Title

Author

Abstract

Sexual identity in the workplace is an exploratory topic in an age when sexuality is becoming a topic of discussion. However, protection of sexual minorities (Lesbians, Gays, and Bisexuals) is not universal despite evidence that heterosexist climates are disadvantageous for employers. In this study, I examined if sexual minorities who perceive their place of employment to be relatively free of heterosexism would be more satisfied with their jobs, perceive more organizational fit, and report less work stress. In addition, I sought to determine if selected personality variables would mediate the relations among critical study variables. The personality variables were internalized homophobia, level of “outness,” and cynicism. Two samples of university students consisting of sexual minorities (n =43) and heterosexuals (n = 67), completed questionnaires online. Results revealed a positive correlation for both groups between organizational climate (i.e., less perceived heterosexism) and job satisfaction, although the correlation for the sexual minority group did not achieve statistical significance, likely due to the small sample size. Due to statistical conditions not being satisfied, partial correlations were performed instead of mediational analyses. Internalized homophobia was found to partially account for the relations between perceived organizational climate and job satisfaction and perceived organizational climate and work stress, respectively. This study encourages further investigation into the role of sexual identity in the workplace, particularly the role of internalized homophobia as possibly influencing sexual minorities to perceive their workplace environment more pejoratively than necessary.

Notes

If this is your Honors thesis, and want to learn how to access it or for more information about readership statistics, contact us at STARS@ucf.edu